Physical keyboards for multi-display computing devices

ABSTRACT

Apparatus, systems, articles of manufacture, and methods are disclosed for physical keyboards with multi-display computing devices. An example keyboard includes a plurality of keys and a translucent backplate having a first side and a second side. The example keyboard also includes a coating between the first side of the backplate and the plurality of keys, the coating to pass light to illuminate the plurality of keys, and the coating to obscure the plurality keys when viewed from the second side of the backplate.

RELATED APPLICATION

This patent arises from a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 16/216,240, which was filed on Dec. 11, 2018. U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 16/216,240 is hereby incorporated herein byreference in its entirety. Priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/216,240 is hereby claimed.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure relates generally to computing devices, and, moreparticularly, to physical keyboards for multi-display computing devices.

BACKGROUND

Some multi-display computing devices include a software-based keyboardthat appears on one of the displays of the computing device to enablethe user to type. User experience typing on a software-based keyboard istypically unsatisfactory compared to a physical keyboard.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a perspective view of an exampledual display computing device with an example physical keyboard inaccordance with the teachings of this disclosure where the computingdevice is in an open position and the keyboard is in a stowed position.

FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of a bottom view of the computingdevice of FIG. 1 with the keyboard stowed toward a front of thecomputing device.

FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of the computing device of FIG. 1 takenalong the 3-3 line of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of the computing device of FIG. 1showing transition of the keyboard from the stowed to the deployedposition.

FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of a perspective view of thecomputing device of FIG. 1 with the keyboard in the deployed position.

FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of bottom view of the computingdevice of FIG. 5 with the keyboard in the deployed position showing anexample recess for stowage of the keyboard.

FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of the computing device of FIG. 5 takenalong the 7-7 line of FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of a perspective view of the examplecomputing device of FIG. 1 with an alternative example physical keyboardin an alternative stowed position.

FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of a bottom view of the computingdevice of FIG. 8 with the physical keyboard stowed toward a rear of thecomputing device.

FIG. 10 is a cross sectional view of the computing device of FIG. 8taken along the 10-10 line of FIG. 8.

FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of a perspective view of thecomputing device of FIG. 8 with the keyboard in an alternative deployedposition.

FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of a bottom view of the computingdevice of FIG. 11 with the keyboard in the deployed position showing anexample recess for stowage of the keyboard.

FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of the computing device of FIG. 11taken along the 13-13 line of FIG. 11.

FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of the computing device of FIG. 11 showingexample keyboard and display coupling elements.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the computing device of FIG. 5taken along the 15-15 line of FIG. 5.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the computing device of FIG. 5taken along the 16-16 line of FIG. 5.

FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of an example keyboard and exampleactivation zone.

FIG. 18 is an enlarged view of an example stylus and example display.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of the example computing device and theexample keyboard of FIG. 1.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart representative of example machine readableinstructions which may be executed to implement the example computingdevice of FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart representative of additional example machinereadable instructions which may be executed to implement the examplecomputing device of FIG. 19.

FIG. 22 is a block diagram of an example processing platform structuredto execute the instructions of FIGS. 20 and 21 to implement thecomputing device of FIG. 19.

The figures are not to scale. Instead, the thickness of the layers orregions may be enlarged in the drawings. In general, the same referencenumbers will be used throughout the drawing(s) and accompanying writtendescription to refer to the same or like parts.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Users of computing devices such as laptops, tablets, and flexibledisplay devices that include dual displays or multiple displays havebeen hesitant to adopt form factors that implement a software-basedkeyboard that appears on a screen or display of the computing device. Asused herein “dual display” means two displays, and “multiple display”means two or more displays. The disclosures herein related to dualdisplays apply to multiple displays and vice versa. In addition,“screen” and “display” maybe used interchangeably. A software-basedkeyboard appearing on the display of the computing device istwo-dimensional and fails to provide a satisfactory typing experiencefor the user. Some purveyors of such computing devices offer physicalkeyboards that are separately sold as accessories for the computingdevice, which adds costs. In addition, these accessories are stowedseparately, increasing the likelihood the accessories are misplaced orlost.

Disclosed herein are example multi-display computing devices that haveexample physical keyboards that are stowable with the device. Thephysical keyboards provide users with a gratifying typing experience asthe users are able to depress physical keys on the keyboard. Inaddition, users are able to type more quickly on a physical keyboardthan on a software-based keyboard. In some examples, the keyboards aretethered to the computing devices via, for example, a soft hinge. Insome examples, the soft hinge is a flexible band. In some examples, thesoft hinge is an elastic band. Deployment and stowage of the keyboardsenable the computing devices to switch between single display andmultiple display modes.

Also disclosed herein are example keyboard illumination mechanisms thatleverage the illumination of one of the displays of the computingdevice. For example, the keyboard is disposed on the display, and theillumination of the display is transmitted through the keyboard from thebeneath. The illumination of the display lights the keys of the keyboardto enable a user to identify the keys of the keyboard by sight in a darkenvironment. These example illumination features of the keyboard andcomputing device enable a reduction in the components of the keyboardbecause the keyboard does not need to include a backlit module or otherdedicated illumination hardware within the chassis of the keyboard. Thesimplified keyboard structure allows a reduction in the height andthickness of the keyboard, which facilitates stowage in the computingdevice.

Also disclosed herein are example keyboard triggering mechanisms inwhich displacement of a key of the keyboard is detected by a sensor. Thedisplaced key is identified and correlated to a software-based oremulated keyboard on one of the displays of the computing device, wheredata related to the identified key is further processed by the computingdevice. In this example, the keys of the keyboard are not directly wiredto components of the computing device. Thus, the circuitry and otherhardware used to connect the keys of a keyboard in a traditionalkeyboard, including flex cables, may be excluded from the examplekeyboard. This reduction in keyboard components further enables areduction in the height or the thickness of the keyboard and in the costof the system without affecting functionality of the keyboard.

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a perspective view of an exampledual display computing device 100. The computing device 100 is in anopen position and includes an example first display 102 and an examplesecond display 104. The first display 102 and the second display 104 arecoupled via means for coupling the first display 102 and the seconddisplay 104 including, for example, an example first hinge 106.

FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of a bottom view of the computingdevice 100 of FIG. 1. The computing device 100 includes an examplekeyboard 108. As shown in FIG. 2, the keyboard 108 is in a stowedposition where an example backplate 110 of the keyboard 108 ispositioned facing toward the exterior of the computing device 100. Inthis example, the keyboard 108 is stowed toward a front of the computingdevice 100. In this context, the “front” of the computing device 100 isthe side of the computing device 100 adjacent a user of the computingdevice 100 when the computing device 100 is in use. The computing device100 also includes an example means for coupling the keyboard 108 to thesecond display 104 including, for example, an example second hinge 112.In this example, the second hinge wraps around the front of thecomputing device 100.

FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of the computing device of FIG. 1 takenalong the A-A line of FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 3, the computing device100 includes an example first housing 114. The first display 102 isdisposed in the first housing 114. The example computing device 100 alsoincludes an example second housing 116. The second display 104 isdisposed on a first side of the second housing 116. The keyboard 108 isstowed in the second housing 116 such that the backplate 110 is alignedwith a second side of the second housing 116. In some examples, thebackplate 110 is flush or substantially flush with the second side ofthe second housing 116. In such examples, the thickness or Z-height ofthe keyboard 108 is less than that of the second housing 116.

Also, in some examples, the backplate 110 includes example feet 117. Inthe illustrated example, the feet 117 is a continuous loop, forming alooped foot. In other examples, the feet 117 may be separate, discreteelements. Also, the illustrated example feet 117 are composed of arubber material. In other examples, other materials or combination ofmaterials may be used. In some examples, the feet 117 are included thereduced Z-height of the keyboard 108 and do not protrude or do notsubstantially protrude from the second side of the second housing 116.

In the stowed position, example keys 118 of the keyboard 108 aredisposed in an interior of the second housing 116 and beneath the seconddisplay 104. The keyboard 108 is stowed adjacent to components of thesecond display 104 and/or the computing device 100 including, forexample, a main processing board 120. In this example, the mainprocessing board 120 is disposed in the second housing 116 adjacent tothe first hinge 106 or otherwise closer to the first hinge 106 than thekeyboard 108. In some examples, the second hinge 112 houses a flexibleprinted circuit to transmit signals between the main processing board120 and the keyboard 108.

The second hinge 112 also is shown in FIG. 3. In this example, thesecond hinge 112 is a soft hinge. In some examples, the second hinge 112is elastic including, for example, an elastic fabric. In some examples,the second hinge 112 may include an artificial leather. In otherexamples, other materials or combination of materials may be used.

FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of the computing device 100 of FIG. 1showing a transition of the keyboard 108 from the stowed position to adeployed position. When a user wants to remove the keyboard 108 from thestowed position, the user releases the keyboard 108 from the second sideof the second housing 116. The keyboard 108 is rotated outward andpivots around via the second hinge 112. The keyboard 108 is placed onthe surface of the second display 104 on the first side of the secondhousing 116 in a deployed or use position. In the deployed position, thekeys 118 of the keyboard 108 face upward and are accessible by the user.

As noted above, in some examples, the second hinge 112 is a soft hinge.In other examples, the second hinge 112 may be a hard hinge. In suchexamples, the second hinge 112 enables the keyboard 108 to rotate fromthe stowed position to the deployed position along the front of thesecond housing 116 and/or second display 104.

FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of a perspective view of thecomputing device 10 of FIG. 1 with the keyboard 108 in the deployedposition. In this example, the deployed position is toward a front ofthe second display 104 and the second housing 116, for example on apalmrest. In addition to the keys 118, the keyboard 108 also includes anexample trackpad 122 and an example trackpad button 123, which is aphysical button. The trackpad 122 and trackpad button 123 can be used tocontrol a mouse, for example. The flexible printed circuit in the secondhinge 112 may also be used to transmit signals to and from the trackpad122 and trackpad button 123.

In the example of FIG. 5, the keyboard 108 does not cover the entiresecond display 104. There is an exposed portion 124 of the seconddisplay 104. When the keyboard 108 is disposed on the second display104, the computing device 100 can be set to a keyboard enabled mode. Thekeyboard enabled mode, in some examples, is a single display mode wherethe first display 102 is enabled and the second display 104 is notenabled and visual text, graphics, indicia, etc. are shown on the firstdisplay 102. Thus, in this example, the computing device is in a singledisplay and keyboard mode. In some examples, in the keyboard enabledmode, the first display 102 and the exposed portion 124 of the seconddisplay 104 are used to present visual media to the user. Also, in someexamples, the exposed portion 124 of the second display 104 may be usedto provide additional function keys, emoticon insertion keys, and/orother input icons or keys.

FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of a bottom view of the computingdevice 100 of FIG. 5 with the keyboard 108 in the deployed position and,thus, not visible in FIG. 6. FIG. 6 shows an example means for stowingthe keyboard 108 including, for example, an example recess 126. In thisexample, the recess 126 is located on the second side of the secondhousing 116 distal to the first hinge 106 and near the front of thesecond display 104 and second housing 116.

The keyboard 108 is held into place in the recess 126 by a magneticconnection. For example, there are magnets or magnetic elements in or onthe keyboard 108, there are complementary magnetic elements in or on thecomputing device 100. The attraction of the magnetic elements releasablyhold the keyboard 108 in the recess 126. In other examples, otherreleasably couplable fasteners may be used such as, for example,latches, snaps, hook features, loop and hook fasteners, etc.

FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of the computing device 100 of FIG. 5taken along the B-B line of FIG. 5. FIG. 7 shows the keyboard 108disposed on the second display 104 while connected to the second housing116 via the second hinge 112. In addition, the position of the keyboard108 relative to the exposed portion 124 of the second display 104 andalignment of the keyboard 108, second display 104, and recess 126 arealso shown.

FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of a perspective view of the examplecomputing device 100 of FIG. 1 with an alternative example keyboard 109in an alternative stowed position, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. FIG. 8illustrates that the computing device 100 has the same appearance in theopen position and dual display mode when the keyboard 108 is stowed inthe position of FIG. 2 and when the keyboard 109 is stowed in theposition of FIG. 9. The keyboard 108 of FIGS. 1-7 and the keyboard 109of FIGS. 8-14 have similar features but are stowed in different areas ofthe computing device 100. Thus, disclosure in this patent, other thanthe location of the keyboards in the stowed and deployed positions,related to one keyboard 108, 109 applies equally to the other keyboard109, 108.

FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of a bottom view of the computingdevice 100 of FIG. 8 with the keyboard 109 stowed toward a rear of thecomputing device 100 adjacent to or otherwise closer to the first hinge106 than the front of the second display 104. As shown in FIG. 9, thekeyboard 109 is in a stowed position where the backplate 110 of thekeyboard 109 is positioned facing toward the exterior of the computingdevice 100.

The computing device 100 also includes the second hinge 112 that couplesthe keyboard 109 to the second display 104. In this example, the secondhinge wraps around the front of the computing device 100 from thekeyboard 109. With the keyboard 109 stowed toward the rear of thecomputing device 100, the second hinge 112 wraps a longer distance tothe front of the second display 104 than when the keyboard 108 is stowedtoward the front the second display 104 and the computing device 100. Toaccomplish the longer wrapping distance, the second hinge 112, in thisexample, includes an example extension or tail 128. In the stowedposition, the tail 128 covers a portion of the second side of thecomputing device 100. In this example, the tail 128 is the same materialas the second hinge 112. In other examples, the tail 128 may be othermaterials or combination of materials.

FIG. 10 is a cross sectional view of the computing device 100 of FIG. 8taken along the C-C line of FIG. 8. As shown in FIG. 10, the computingdevice 100 includes the first housing 114 in which the first display 102is disposed. The computing device 100 also includes the second housing116. The second display 104 is disposed on the first side of the secondhousing 116. The keyboard 109 is stowed in the second housing 116 suchthat the backplate 110 is aligned with a second side of the secondhousing 116. In some examples, the backplate 110 is flush orsubstantially flush with the second side of the second housing 116. Insuch examples, the thickness or Z-height of the keyboard 109 is lessthan that of the second housing 116.

In the stowed position, example keys 118 of the keyboard 109 aredisposed in an interior of the second housing 116 and beneath the seconddisplay 104. The keyboard 109 is stowed adjacent to the main processingboard 120 and other components of the second display 104 and/or thecomputing device 100. In this example, the main processing board 120 isdisposed in the second housing 116 adjacent to the second hinge 112 orotherwise closer to the front of the second housing 116 than thekeyboard 109. The main board 120 is also positioned between the seconddisplay 104 and the tail 128.

FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of a perspective view of thecomputing device 100 of FIG. 8 with the keyboard 109 in an alternativedeployed position. In this example, the deployed position is away fromthe palmrest and toward the rear of the second display 104 and thesecond housing 116 adjacent to or otherwise closer to the first hinge106 than the front of the second display 104 and second housing 116. Inthe example of FIG. 5, the keyboard 109 does not cover the entire seconddisplay 104. However, the tail 128 of the second hinge 112 covers theportion of the second display 104 not covered by the keyboard 109, i.e.,the palmrest.

FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of a bottom view of the computingdevice 100 of FIG. 8 with the keyboard 109 in the deployed position and,thus, not visible in FIG. 12. FIG. 12 shows an example means for stowingthe keyboard 109 including, for example, the example recess 130 forstowage of the keyboard 109, which is similar to the recess 126disclosed above. In this example, the recess 130 is located on thesecond side of the second housing 116 adjacent to the first hinge 106and near the rear of the second display 104 and second housing 116.

The keyboard 109 is held into place in the recess 130 by a magneticconnection. For example, there are magnets or magnetic elements in or onthe keyboard 109, there are complementary magnetic elements in or on thecomputing device 100. The attraction of the magnetic elements releasablyhold the keyboard 109 in the recess 130. In other examples, otherreleasably couplable fasteners may be used such as, for example,latches, snaps, hook features, loop and hook fasteners, etc.

FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of the computing device 100 of FIG. 11taken along the D-D line of FIG. 11. FIG. 13 shows the keyboard 109disposed on the second display 104 while connected to the second housing116 via the tail 128 and the second hinge 112. In addition, the positionof the keyboard 109 relative to the first hinge 106 and alignment of thekeyboard 108, second display 104, and recess 130 are also shown. In thisexample, the second display 104 is covered by the keyboard 109 and thetail 128.

FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of the computing device 100 of FIG. 11showing example keyboard and display coupling elements including anexample first coupling element 132 disposed in or coupled to thekeyboard 108 and an example second coupling element 134 disposed in orcoupled to the second housing 116. The first coupling element 132 andsecond coupling element 134 form means for positioning the keyboard 109on the second display 104. These example elements can be applied equallythe example of FIG. 5. In this example, the first coupling element 132and the second coupling element 134 are magnetic elements. For example,the first coupling element 132 and the second coupling element 134 maybemagnets. Alternatively, the first coupling element 132 or the secondcoupling element 134 may be a magnet and the other of the first couplingelement 132 or the second coupling element 134 is a magnetizable elementsuch as, for example, a metal plate or bar.

As the first coupling element 132 is brought into proximity with thesecond coupling element 134, a magnetic force attracts the firstcoupling element 132 and the second coupling element 134. The magneticforce brings the keyboard 109 into position on the second display 104.The magnetic force may be used to hold the keyboard 109 in place while auser strikes keys 118 of the keyboard 109.

Also, the first coupling element 132 and the second coupling element 134aide in the proper positioning of the keyboard 109 on the second display104. This is useful when the keyboard 108 is positioned on the seconddisplay 104 as shown in FIG. 5 and the exposed portion 124 of the seconddisplay 104 is used to present visual materials to the user. In suchexamples, the first coupling element 132 and the second coupling element134 position the keyboard 108 such that the keyboard 108 does notobscure the exposed portion 124 of the second display 104. In someexamples, the length of the second hinge 112 also aides in properplacement of the keyboard 109 on the second display 104 in the deployedposition.

In some examples, the length of the tail 128 enables the keyboard 109 tobe withdrawn from the recess 130 and placed on a surface adjacent to thecomputing device 100. In such examples, the keyboard 109 may be enabledfor use while both the first display 102 and the second display 104 areboth enabled for use. Compared to the example of FIG. 5, in thisexample, the entire second display 104 would be available for thepresentation of visual media.

In FIG. 14, the first coupling element 132 is disposed on or in thekeyboard 109 on the side of the keyboard 109 facing the user, and thesecond coupling element 134 is disposed on or in the second housing 116at or near a midway point of the second housing 116. In other examples,the first coupling element 132 and/or the second coupling element 134may be disposed in other positions. For example, the second couplingelement 132 may be disposed in or on the second housing 116 at or nearthe second hinge 112 when the keyboard 108 is coupled to the seconddisplay 104 as shown in FIG. 5. Also, in some examples, the firstcoupling element 132 and the second coupling element 134 may bepositioned at the rear of the keyboard 109 and second housing 116,respectively, closer to the first hinge 106. In yet other examples, thefirst coupling element 132 and the second coupling element 134 maybepositioned on one or both lateral or left and right sides of thekeyboard 109 and the second housing 116, respectively. Other placementsor combination of placements may be used. In addition, though one firstcoupling element 132 and one second coupling element 134 is shown inFIG. 14, other numbers (e.g., two, three, four, etc.) may be used. Also,the number of first coupling element(s) 132 and the number of secondcoupling element(s) 134 may not match. For example, there may be twofirst coupling elements 132 that are couplable to one relatively longersecond coupling element 134. In other examples, different first couplingelements 132 are couplable to different second coupling elements 134 indifferent positions.

In some examples, the first coupling element 132 and the second couplingelement 134 incorporate a sensor. In some examples, the sensor is a Halleffect sensor. The sensor, as disclosed in more detail below, cantransmit data representative of the placement or presence of thekeyboard 109 on the second display 104 including, in some examples, theposition of the keyboard 109 on the second display 104. The dataindicated of the presence and/or position (and/or absence) of thekeyboard 109 may be used to determine an operating mode of the computingdevice 100. For example, detection of the keyboard 108 on the seconddisplay 104 near the second hinge 112 can prompt the computing device100 to enter a keyboard enabled mode with the first display 102 and theexposed portion 124 of the second display 104 enabled. In addition,detection of the keyboard 109 on the second display 104 near the firsthinge 106 can prompt the computing device 100 to enter a keyboardenabled and single display mode with the first display 102 enabled.Further, detection of an absence of the keyboard 109 on the seconddisplay 104 can prompt the computing device 100 to enter a dual displaymode with the keyboard 109 disabled.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the computing device 100 takenalong the E-E line of FIG. 5. FIG. 15 illustrates the second display 104disposed in the second housing 116. The keyboard 108 is disposed on thesecond display 104, and rests on the second display 104 via the feet117. As indicated above, all disclosure related to the keyboard 108applies equally to the keyboard 109 and vice versa, aside from thestowed and deployed positions.

The backplate 110 of the keyboard 108 is a glass or polycarbonatetransparent plate. In other examples, the backplate 110 may be made ofother transparent or translucent material or combination of materials.In some examples, the backplate 110 is about 550 microns (μm) thick. Inother examples, other dimensions may be used. In some examples, anexample high transmission rate coating 136 is included above thebackplate 110. The high transmission rate coating 136 may be a decocoating including, for example, a non-conductive vapor metallization(NCVM) coating. In other examples, other types of coatings may be used.In some examples, the high transmission rate coating is about 30 μmthick. In other examples, other dimensions may be used. The backplate110 of a transparent or translucent material and the high transmissionrate coating 136 facilitate the transmission of light from the seconddisplay 104 up through the keyboard 108 as illustrated by the arrows inFIG. 15. Thus, in some examples, the backplate 110 and/or hightransmission rate coating 136 are used for transmitting light throughthe keyboard 108 when disposed on the second display 104.

In the illustrated example, above the high transmission rate coating 136is an example light isolating layer 138. The light isolating layer 138blocks or impedes the transmission of light from the second display 104.The light isolating layer 138 may be a continuous layer or separate,distinct elements. The light isolating layer 138 does not run directlybeneath the keys 118 of the keyboard 108. Instead, the light isolatinglayer 138 is disposed in a layer and around the areas directly, e.g.,vertically, below the keys 118. In some examples, the light isolatinglayer 138 may be a sponge adhesive. In other examples, the lightisolating layer 138 is a high density foam, a tape, a neoprene sponge,and/or other material or combination of materials that can form a gasketor gasket-like structure to isolate light. In addition, the lightisolating layer 138 includes means for obscuring or otherwise preventingvisibility of elements of the keyboard 108 that are disposed above thelight isolating layer 138 including, for example, the keys 118 whenviewed from the outside of the computing device via the backplate 110,which is transparent or translucent, when the keyboard 108 is in thestowed position of FIG. 2 and FIG. 9. The high transmission rate coating136 may also aide in making the keyboard components obscured and/orinvisible from the other side. In some examples, the light isolatinglayer 138 is about 150 p.m thick. In other examples, other dimensionsmay be used.

In some examples, above the light isolating layer 138 is an examplekeyboard base plate 140. Circuitry and other hardware used in thefunctioning of the keyboard 108 may be coupled to the keyboard baseplate 140. The keyboard base plate 140 may be a continuous layer orseparate, distinct elements. The keyboard base plate 140 does not rundirectly beneath the keys 118 of the keyboard 108. Instead, the keyboardbase plate 140 has apertures or otherwise is disposed around the areasdirectly, e.g., vertically, below the keys 118. In some examples, thekeyboard base plate 140 is about 200 μm thick. In other examples, otherdimensions may be used.

An example keyboard membrane 142 is included above the keyboard baseplate 140 and forms the chassis or skin of the keyboard 108. Thekeyboard membrane 142 does not run directly beneath the keys 118 of thekeyboard 108. Instead, the keyboard membrane 142 has apertures orotherwise is disposed around the areas directly, e.g., vertically, belowthe keys 118. In some examples, the keyboard membrane is about 100 p.mthick. In other examples, other dimensions may be used.

The keys 118 appear at the top of the keyboard 108. The keys 118 includeexample key caps 144 that are connected to the keyboard 108 via examplekey connectors 146. In the illustrated example, the key connectors are aflexible scissor structure that enable the keys 118 to be depressed.After release of one the keys 118, the corresponding key connectors 146moves the key 118 upward due to the biasing force of the key connector146.

Conventional keyboards include a separate keyboard backlit modulebeneath the support plate. In this example, no separate components areneed to illuminate the keys 118. Light from the second display 104 formsmeans for illuminating the keyboard 108. The light is transmittedthrough the backplate 110 and the high transmission rate coating 136.The light continues through the areas directly under the keys 118 wherethe light will not be blocked or otherwise obscured by the lightisolation layer 138, the keyboard base plate 140, and/or the keyboardmembrane 142. The light continues to be transmitted through the keyboard108 and through the keys 118 to illuminate the key caps 144.

The feet 117 also surround at least a portion of the backplate 110 andform means for preventing light leakage around the base of the keyboard108. The illuminated key caps 144 and diminished or eliminated lightleakage facilitate use of the keyboard 108 by the user in a darkenvironment. In addition, the removal of the dedicated keyboard backlitmodule from the keyboard 108, enables the form factor including, forexample, the Z-height of the keyboard 108 to be decreased.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the computing device of FIG. 5taken along the F-F line of FIG. 5. FIG. 16 shows the trackpad 122 andtrackpad button 123 as arranged in the keyboard 108. The trackpad 122 isa glass panel, glass plate, or other transparent or translucentmaterial. In this example, the trackpad 122 is about 550 p.m thick. Inother examples, other dimensions may be used.

The lower layers of the keyboard 108 beneath the trackpad 122 andtrackpad button 123 also include the backplate 110, which is made of thetransparent or translucent material disclosed above, and the hightransmission rate coating 136. Light from the second display 104 cantravel through the backplate 110 and the high rate transmission coating136 and illuminate the trackpad button 123. Also, in this example, thetrackpad button 123 is structured similar to one of the keys 118 asdisclosed above.

Above the high transmission rate coating 136 and adjacent the areabeneath the trackpad key 123 is a mesh layer 148. In this example, themesh layer 148 is a metal mesh layer for touch. In these examples, themesh layer 148 senses a user's touch on the trackpad 122 and transmitssignals indicative of the touch. Also, in this example, the mesh layer148 is about 30 μm thick. In other examples, other dimensions may beused.

The example disclosed above includes a trackpad 122 with a surface madeof glass and with touch sensor attached on the backside of the trackpad122. In other examples, the trackpad 122 may include a one glasssolution (OGS), with the touch sensor integrated to the glass. In bothexamples, touch functionality is enabled.

In the example of FIG. 16, no separate liquid crystal display or otherdisplay module for the trackpad 122 is needed. The reduction incomponents enables a smaller form factor and lower manufacturing costs.In these examples, no functionality is lost, as the second display 104is leveraged to provide the functionality as disclosed above.

The backplate 110, the high transmission rate coating 136, the meshlayer 148, and the plate of the trackpad 122 enable light to betransmitted therethrough. In addition, the backplate 110, the hightransmission rate coating 136, the mesh layer 148, and the plate of thetrackpad 122 enable the contents of the second display 104 to appear onthe trackpad 122. In this example, the second display 104 may be viewedand interacted with by the user via the trackpad 122 device disposed ontop of the second display 104. Thus, with the keyboard 108 disposed onthe second display, portions of the second display 104 beneath thekeyboard may be visible.

FIG. 17 is an enlarged cross-section view of one of the keys 118 of thekeyboard 108 and the trackpad key 123. The labeling of the key 118 andthe trackpad button 123 in FIG. 17 can be switched, or the figure canrepresent two keys 118, because the structure of the key connectors 146of the keys 118 and the trackpad button 123 are the same orsubstantially similar. In this example, the key connector 146 includesan example scissor structure 150 that biases the key 118 and/or thetrackpad button 123 upward and enables the key 118 and/or the trackpadbutton 123 to be depressed when the user selects the key 118 and/or thetrackpad button 123 (as shown by the position of the trackpad button 123in FIG. 17). When the user releases the key 118 and/or the trackpadbutton 123, the scissor structure 150 returns the key 118 and/or thetrackpad button 123 to the extended position (as shown by the key 118 inFIG. 17).

The key connector 146 also includes an example elastic base 152. Theelastic base 152 compresses when the key 118 and/or the trackpad button123 is depressed. The elastic base 152 returns to the extended ordecompressed state when the key 118 and/or the trackpad button 123 isreleased. The presence and structure of the elastic base 152 contributesto the real typing experience sensed by the user. The elastic base 152in this example is a rubber base. In other examples, other materials orcombination of materials may be used.

The key connector 146 also includes an example conductive tip 154. Inthis example, the conductive tip 154 is located below the key cap 144 ofthe key 118 and/or trackpad button 123 and above the elastic base 152.Also, the example conductive tip 154 is a rubber material that is lesselastic than the elastic base 152. The conductive tip 154 is rigid anddoes not compress when the key 118 and/or the trackpad button 123 isdepressed. In this example, the conductive tip 154 is a rubber material.In other examples, other materials or combination of materials includingother conductive elastomers maybe used.

In the example of FIG. 17, the keyboard 108 does not include a keyboardbacklight module, as disclosed above. In addition, in this example, thekeyboard 108 does not include the light isolating layer 138, thekeyboard base plate 140, or the keyboard membrane 142 under the keys118. Also, the keyboard 108 lacks the mesh layer 148 under the trackpad122. In addition, there are no flexible circuits or other hardwarerunning between the keyboard 108 and the main processing board 120 viathe second hinge 112. Instead, in this example, there is asoftware-based or emulated keyboard and trackpad that appear on thesecond display 104. The user operation of the physical keyboard 108 andtrackpad 122 disposed on the top surface of the second display 104interacts with the second display 104 and specifically thesoftware-based or emulated keyboard and trackpad that are displayed onthe second display 104.

To facilitate communication between the physical keyboard 108 and thecomputing device 100 in the example of FIG. 17, the computing device 100has established an example activation zone 156. The activation zone isan area above the second display 104 in which hovering can be detected,and the hovering is used as an input triggering mechanism. For example,entry of the conductive tip 154 into the zone can be detected withoutthe conductive tip 154 directly contacting the second display 104.

The computing device 100 includes an example sensor 158 that can detectwhen the conductive tip 154 enters the activation zone 156. Based on theposition and/or alignment of the conductive tip 154 vis-à-vis thesoftware-based keyboard and trackpad on the second display 104 and entryof the conductive tip 154 into the activation zone 156, the sensor 158can further determine specifically which of the keys 118 and/or thetrackpad button 123 the user depressed. With the key 118 and/or trackpadbutton 123 identified, the sensor 158 transmits a corresponding inputcommand for further processing. In some examples, the sensor 158 and aprocessor that handles data transmitted from the sensor 158 related tomovement of the keys 118 and/or the trackpad button 123 may beincorporated into the keyboard 108.

FIG. 18 is an enlarged view of the first display 102 in which hoveringinput can be detected. In this example, an example pen or stylus 160hovers adjacent to the first display 102. The stylus 160 includes aconductive element that is detected by an activation zone of the firstdisplay 102. As shown in FIG. 18, an input from the stylus 160 in theform of the example mark 162 is present on the first display 102, thoughthe stylus 160 has not made direct contact with the first display 102.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of the example computing device 100 and theexample keyboard 108. As disclosed above, the keyboard 108 includesinputs such as, for example, the keys 118, the trackpad 122, and thetrackpad button 123. The computing device 100 further includes anexample keyboard position sensor 202, an example mode determiner 204, anexample keyboard enabler 206, an example keyboard emulator 208, anexample activation zone determiner 210, an example zone sensor 212, andan example input register 214.

The keyboard position sensor 202 determines if the keyboard 108 ispositioned on the second display 104 and includes means for detectingplacement of the keyboard 108 on the second display 104. The keyboardposition sensor 202 also determines if the keyboard 108 is positioned onthe second display 104 adjacent the first hinge 106, or if the keyboard108 is positioned on the second display 104 adjacent the second hinge112. In some examples, the keyboard position sensor 202 includes theHall effect sensor disclosed above in connection with the first couplingelement 132 and the second coupling element 134.

The mode determiner 204 forms means for setting or determining of modeof the computing device 100. Based on the position of the keyboard 108detected by the keyboard position sensor 202, the mode determiner 204determines an operating mode for the computing device 100. For example,if the keyboard position sensor 202 determines that the keyboard 108 isnot positioned on the second display 104, the mode determiner 204 setsthe mode of the computing device 100 to a dual display or multi-displaymode in which both the first display 102 and the second display 104 areused to present visual media to the user. If the keyboard positionsensor 202 determines that the keyboard 108 is positioned on the seconddisplay 104 and is positioned adjacent or otherwise closer to the firsthinge 106, the mode determiner 204 sets the mode of the computing device100 to a single display mode in which the first display 102 is used topresent visual media to the user while the second display 104 is used alight source to illuminate the keys 118, trackpad 122, and trackpadbutton 123 of the keyboard 108. In addition, if the keyboard positionsensor 202 determines that the keyboard 108 is positioned on the seconddisplay 104 and is positioned adjacent or otherwise closer to the secondhinge 112, the mode determiner 204 sets the mode of the computing device100 to a partially multi-display mode in which the first display 102 isused to present visual media to the user, and the exposed portion 124 ofthe second display 104 is used to present additional functionaloperations to the user or other media as disclosed above. The portion ofthe second display 104 beneath the keyboard 108 is used as a lightsource to illuminate the keys 118, trackpad 122, and trackpad button 123of the keyboard 108.

The computing device 100 further includes the keyboard enabler 206 whichworks in concert with the mode determiner 204 to set an operating modeof the keyboard 108. For example, when the mode determiner 204 sets theoperating mode of the computing device 100 to a dual display mode, thekeyboard enabler 206 can disable the keyboard 108. Disabling thekeyboard 108 prevents registration or processing of input to thekeyboard 108 such as, for example, depression of one or more keys 118,touch on or near the trackpad 122, and/or depression of the trackpadbutton 123. In another example, the keyboard position sensor 202 candetect the placement of the keyboard 108 into the recess 126, 130 on thesecond side of the second housing 116, and the keyboard enabler 206disables the keyboard 108 when placement is the recess 126, 130 isdetected. In such examples, the keyboard enabler 206 may enable thekeyboard 108 though the keyboard 108 is not detected on the seconddisplay 104 but is to be used off of the computing device 100.

In other examples, when the mode determiner 204 sets the operating modeof the computing device 100 to a single display mode and/or partiallymulti-display mode, the keyboard enabler 206 can enable the keyboard108. Enabling the keyboard 108 allows registration or processing ofinput to the keyboard 108 such as, for example, depression of one ormore keys 118, touch on or near the trackpad 122, and/or depression ofthe trackpad button 123.

In some examples, when the keyboard 108 enabled, the hovering technologydisclosed above in connection with FIG. 17 is used to detect and processoperation of the keyboard 108. In some examples, the computing device100 includes the keyboard emulator 208. The keyboard emulator 208presents or portrays a keyboard such as, for example, a software-basedkeyboard on the second display 104 below the keyboard 108. Therefore, inthis example, there is an emulated keyboard appearing on the seconddisplay 104 under the keyboard 108.

The computing device 100 also includes the activation zone determiner210. The activation zone determiner 210 sets an activation zone abovethe second display 104. For example, the activation zone determiner 210sets an activation zone above the emulated keyboard on the seconddisplay 104 that extends into the keyboard 108 such as, for example, theactivation zone 156 of FIG. 17.

The zone sensor 212, which may include the sensor 158 of FIG. 17,includes means for detecting movement in the activation zone 156. Thezone sensor 212 detects when one of the keys 118 or the trackpad button123 has been displaced. For example, the zone sensor 212 detects when aportion of one of the keys 118 or the trackpad button 123 has enteredthe activation zone 156 set by the activation zone determiner 210. Forexample, the zone sensor 212 detects when the conductive tip 154 of oneof the keys 118 crosses into the activation zone 156.

The depth of the activation zone 156 is adjustable. The activation zonedeterminer 210 can set or adjust the depth of the activation zone 156based on physical parameters of the keyboard 108. For example, theZ-height or thickness of the keyboard 108, the height of the feet 117,and/or the physical dimensions of the keys 118, the elastic base 152,and/or the conductive tip 154 may be used to set the activation zone156. In some examples, the elasticity of the elastic base 152 and/orresilience of the scissor structure 150 may be used to set theactivation zone 156.

Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, the depth of theactivation zone 156 is set in accordance to a desired sensitivity. Forexample, a deeper activation zone would be more sensitive. In suchexamples, a relatively smaller movement of one of the keys 118 or thetrackpad button 123 would enter the activation zone 156 and, thus, wouldtrigger processing of the corresponding key stroke. In a deeperactivation zone, the user can activate the trackpad 122 a relativelyhigher distance above the surface of the trackpad 122. A shalloweractivation zone would be less sensitive. For example, a relativelylarger movement of one of the keys 118 or the trackpad button 123 wouldbe needed for the key 118 to enter the activation zone 156. Also, arelatively closer finger movement would be needed to activate thetrackpad 122 in a less sensitive activation zone.

The example computing device 100 also includes the input register 214,which includes means for processing signals such as input signals andmeans for registering selection of a key. In some examples, the inputregister 214 is incorporated into the sensor 158. Also, in someexamples, the input register 214 determines which of the keys 118 or thetrackpad button 123 entered the activation zone 156 based on analignment of the key 118 or the trackpad button 123 with a correspondingelement on the emulated keyboard that appears on the second display 104beneath the keyboard 108. When the selected key 118 or the trackpadbutton 123 is identified, the input register 214 registers or furtherprocesses the selection by, for example, sending the selection to themain processing board 120.

Other examples, input related to the selected key 118 or the trackpadbutton 123 is sent directly from the keyboard 108 to the main processingboard 120 via a wired connection disposed in the second hinge 112.

While an example manner of implementing the computing device 100 of FIG.1 is illustrated in FIG. 19, one or more of the elements, processesand/or devices illustrated in FIG. 19 may be combined, divided,re-arranged, omitted, eliminated, and/or implemented in any other way.Further, the example keyboard position sensor 202, the example modedeterminer 204, the example keyboard enabler 206, the example keyboardemulator 208, the example activation zone determiner 210, the examplezone sensor 212, and/or the example input register 214 of FIG. 19 may beimplemented by hardware, software, firmware, and/or any combination ofhardware, software, and/or firmware. Thus, for example, any of theexample keyboard position sensor 202, the example mode determiner 204,the example keyboard enabler 206, the example keyboard emulator 208, theexample activation zone determiner 210, the example zone sensor 212,and/or the example input register 214 could be implemented by one ormore analog or digital circuit(s), logic circuits, programmableprocessor(s), programmable controller(s), graphics processing unit(s)(GPU(s)), digital signal processor(s) (DSP(s)), application specificintegrated circuit(s) (ASIC(s)), programmable logic device(s) (PLD(s)),and/or field programmable logic device(s) (FPLD(s)). When reading any ofthe apparatus or system claims of this patent to cover a purely softwareand/or firmware implementation, at least one of the example, examplekeyboard position sensor 202, the example mode determiner 204, theexample keyboard enabler 206, the example keyboard emulator 208, theexample activation zone determiner 210, the example zone sensor 212,and/or the example input register 214 is/are hereby expressly defined toinclude a non-transitory computer readable storage device or storagedisk such as a memory, a digital versatile disk (DVD), a compact disk(CD), a Blu-ray disk, etc. including the software and/or firmware.Further still, the example computing device 100 of FIG. 1 may includeone or more elements, processes, and/or devices in addition to, orinstead of, those illustrated in FIG. 19, and/or may include more thanone of any or all of the illustrated elements, processes and devices. Asused herein, the phrase “in communication,” including variationsthereof, encompasses direct communication and/or indirect communicationthrough one or more intermediary components, and does not require directphysical (e.g., wired) communication and/or constant communication, butrather additionally includes selective communication at periodicintervals, scheduled intervals, aperiodic intervals, and/or one-timeevents.

A flowchart representative of example hardware logic, machine readableinstructions, hardware implemented state machines, and/or anycombination thereof for implementing the computing device 100 of FIG. 19is shown in FIGS. 20 and 21. The machine readable instructions may be anexecutable program or portion of an executable program for execution bya computer processor such as the processor 512 shown in the exampleprocessor platform 500 discussed below in connection with FIG. 22. Theprogram may be embodied in software stored on a non-transitory computerreadable storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a floppy disk, a hard drive, aDVD, a Blu-ray disk, or a memory associated with the processor 512, butthe entire program and/or parts thereof could alternatively be executedby a device other than the processor 512 and/or embodied in firmware ordedicated hardware. Further, although the example programs are describedwith reference to the flowcharts illustrated in FIGS. 20 and 21, manyother methods of implementing the example computing device 100 mayalternatively be used. For example, the order of execution of the blocksmay be changed, and/or some of the blocks described may be changed,eliminated, or combined. Additionally or alternatively, any or all ofthe blocks may be implemented by one or more hardware circuits (e.g.,discrete and/or integrated analog and/or digital circuitry, an FPGA, anASIC, a comparator, an operational-amplifier (op-amp), a logic circuit,etc.) structured to perform the corresponding operation withoutexecuting software or firmware.

As mentioned above, the example processes of FIGS. 20 and 21 may beimplemented using executable instructions (e.g., computer and/or machinereadable instructions) stored on a non-transitory computer and/ormachine readable medium such as a hard disk drive, a flash memory, aread-only memory, a compact disk, a digital versatile disk, a cache, arandom-access memory, and/or any other storage device or storage disk inwhich information is stored for any duration (e.g., for extended timeperiods, permanently, for brief instances, for temporarily buffering,and/or for caching of the information). As used herein, the terms“non-transitory computer readable medium” and “non-transitory machinereadable medium” are expressly defined to include any type of computeror machine readable storage device and/or storage disk and to excludepropagating signals and to exclude transmission media.

“Including” and “comprising” (and all forms and tenses thereof) are usedherein to be open ended terms. Thus, whenever a claim employs any formof “include” or “comprise” (e.g., comprises, includes, comprising,including, having, etc.) as a preamble or within a claim recitation ofany kind, it is to be understood that additional elements, terms, etc.may be present without falling outside the scope of the correspondingclaim or recitation. As used herein, when the phrase “at least” is usedas the transition term in, for example, a preamble of a claim, it isopen-ended in the same manner as the term “comprising” and “including”are open ended. The term “and/or” when used, for example, in a form suchas A, B, and/or C refers to any combination or subset of A, B, C such as(1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) A with B, (5) A with C, (6) Bwith C, and (7) A with B and with C. As used herein in the context ofdescribing structures, components, items, objects, and/or things, thephrase “at least one of A and B” is intended to refer to implementationsincluding any of (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) atleast one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein in the contextof describing structures, components, items, objects and/or things, thephrase “at least one of A or B” is intended to refer to implementationsincluding any of (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) atleast one A and at least one B. As used herein in the context ofdescribing the performance or execution of processes, instructions,actions, activities, and/or steps, the phrase “at least one of A and B”is intended to refer to implementations including any of (1) at leastone A, (2) at least one B, and (3) at least one A and at least one B.Similarly, as used herein in the context of describing the performanceor execution of processes, instructions, actions, activities, and/orsteps, the phrase “at least one of A or B” is intended to refer toimplementations including any of (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B,and (3) at least one A and at least one B.

The program 300 of FIG. 20 illustrates an example operation of thecomputing device 100 when the keyboard 108 is attached to the computingdevice 100 via the second hinge 112 and inputs to the keyboard 108 areprocessed through, for example, wired connections that run through thesecond hinge 112. In the program 300 of FIG. 20, the keyboard positionsensor 202 detects if the keyboard 108 is positioned on the surface ofthe second display 104 (block 302).

If the keyboard position sensor 202 does not detect that the keyboard108 is positioned on the surface of the display (block 302), the modedeterminer 204 sets the mode of the computing device 100 for multipledisplays (block 304). In addition, the keyboard enabler 206 disables thekeyboard 108 (block 306) to prevent activation or depression of any ofthe keys 118 of trackpad button 123 from generating any input signals.

If the keyboard position sensor 202 does detect that the keyboard 108 ispositioned on the surface of the display (block 302), the keyboardposition sensor 202 also detects if the keyboard 108 is positionedadjacent or near the first hinge (e.g., FIG. 11) or if the keyboard 108is positioned adjacent or near the second hinge (e.g., FIG. 5) (block308).

If the keyboard position sensor 202 detects that the keyboard 108 ispositioned on the surface of the second display 104 near the first hinge106 (block 308), the mode determiner 204 sets the mode of the computingdevice 100 for a single display (block 310).

If the keyboard position sensor 202 detects that the keyboard 108 ispositioned on the surface of the second display 104 near the secondhinge 112 (block 308), the mode determiner 204 sets the mode of thecomputing device 100 for a single display with a function display (block312). In some examples, however, when the keyboard position sensor 202detects the keyboard 108 on the second display 104 near the second hinge112, the exposed portion 124 of the second display 104 does not providefunction operations or other material. In such examples, the modedeterminer 204 sets the mode to a single display mode as shown in block310.

The example program 300 also includes the computing device 100 using thesecond display as a light source to backlight the keyboard 108 (block314). For example, the light from the second display 104 is propagatingthrough the layers of the computing device 100 as disclosed above withFIGS. 17 and 18.

In the single display mode or the single display and function displaymode, the keyboard enabler 206 enables the keyboard 108 (block 316). Theinput register 214 registers or processes input into the keyboard 108when enabled (block 318). For example, when the keyboard 108 is enabled,a depression or selection of one of the keys 118 and/or the trackpadbutton 123 or touch input to the trackpad 122 will be processed by thecomputing device 100.

The example program 300 continues with the keyboard position sensor 202determining if the keyboard 108 is detected on the second display 104(block 302). Movement of the keyboard 108 with respect to the seconddisplay 104 will cause different operation of the example program 300.

The program 400 of FIG. 21 illustrates an example operation of thecomputing device 100 when the keyboard 108 implements hover technologyto detect input to the keyboard 108 and trigger processing of the input.In this example, the keyboard 108 may or may not be tethered to thecomputing device 100 via the second hinge 112.

In the program 400 of FIG. 21, the keyboard position sensor 202 detectsif the keyboard 108 is positioned on the surface of the second display104 (block 402). If the keyboard position sensor 202 does not detectthat the keyboard 108 is positioned on the surface of the display (block402), the mode determiner 204 sets the mode of the computing device 100for multiple displays (block 404). In addition, the keyboard enabler 206disables the keyboard 108 (block 406) to prevent activation ordepression of any of the keys 118 of trackpad button 123 from generatingany input signals.

If the keyboard position sensor 202 does detect that the keyboard 108 ispositioned on the surface of the display (block 402), the keyboardposition sensor 202 also detects if the keyboard 108 is positionedadjacent or near the first hinge (e.g., FIG. 11) or if the keyboard 108is positioned adjacent or near the second hinge (e.g., FIG. 5) (block408).

If the keyboard position sensor 202 detects that the keyboard 108 ispositioned on the surface of the second display 104 near the first hinge106 (block 408), the mode determiner 204 sets the mode of the computingdevice 100 for a single display (block 410).

If the keyboard position sensor 202 detects that the keyboard 108 ispositioned on the surface of the second display 104 near the secondhinge 112 (block 408), the mode determiner 204 sets the mode of thecomputing device 100 for a single display with a function display (block412). In some examples, however, when the keyboard position sensor 202detects the keyboard 108 on the second display 104 near the second hinge112, the exposed portion 124 of the second display 104 does not providefunction operations or other material. In such examples, the modedeterminer 204 sets the mode to a single display mode as shown in block410.

The example program 400 also includes the computing device 100 using thesecond display as a light source to backlight the keyboard 108 (block414). For example, the light from the second display 104 is propagatingthrough the layers of the computing device 100 as disclosed above withFIGS. 17 and 18.

In the single display mode or the single display and function displaymode, the keyboard enabler 206 enables the keyboard 108 (block 416). Thekeyboard emulator 208 presents an emulated keyboard 108 on the seconddisplay 104 under the keyboard 108 (block 418).

In the example program 400 of FIG. 21, the activation zone determiner210 sets an activation zone (block 420) such as, for example, theactivation zone 156 of FIG. 17 above the second display 104. Theactivation zone 156 has a depth that correlates to the sensitivity ofthe keys 118 or trackpad button 123. For example, a larger or deeperactivation zone 156 would detect a smaller movement of one of the keys118 or the trackpad button 123 because the corresponding conductive tip154 would enter the activation zone 156 sooner than if the activationzone 156 were shallower. The activation zone determiner 210 can set theactivation zone 156 based on a desired sensitivity and/or physicalcharacteristics of the keyboard 108, keys, and/or trackpad button 123 asdisclosed above.

The zone sensor 212 and/or the sensor 158 detect if there is movement inthe activation zone 156 (block 422). For example, the zone sensor 212detects when the conductive tip 154 of one of the keys 118 descends intothe activation zone 156 when pressed by a user.

If the zone sensor 212 does not detect movement in the activation zone156 (block 422), there is no input to register or process, and theexample program 400 continues with the keyboard position sensor 202determining if the keyboard 108 is detected on the second display 104(block 402). In addition, if the zone sensor 212 does not detectmovement in the activation zone 156 (block 422), and there is nomovement of the keyboard 108, the process 400 will progress as disclosedabove until the zone sensor 212 detects movement in the activation zone156 (block 422) or the keyboard position sensor 202 detects arepositioning of the keyboard 108 (block 408) or removal of the keyboard108 from the second display 104 (block 420).

If the zone sensor 212 does detect movement in the activation zone 156(block 422), the input register 214 registers or processes the input(block 424). For example, the input register 214 correlates thedepressed or selected key 118 or trackpad button 123 with acorresponding feature or element of the emulated keyboard on the seconddisplay 104. The corresponding element is processed as the selected key118 or trackpad button 123 (block 424).

The example program 300 continues with the keyboard position sensor 202determining if the keyboard 108 is detected on the second display 104(block 402). Movement of the keyboard 108 with respect to the seconddisplay 104 will cause different operation of the example program 400.

FIG. 22 is a block diagram of an example processor platform 500structured to execute the instructions of FIGS. 20 and 21 to implementthe computing device 100 of FIGS. 1 and 19. The processor platform 500can be, for example, a server, a personal computer, a workstation, aself-learning machine (e.g., a neural network), a mobile device (e.g., acell phone, a smart phone, a tablet such as an iPad™), a personaldigital assistant (PDA), an Internet appliance, a gaming console, or anyother type of computing device.

The processor platform 500 of the illustrated example includes aprocessor 512. The processor 512 of the illustrated example is hardware.For example, the processor 512 can be implemented by one or moreintegrated circuits, logic circuits, microprocessors, GPUs, DSPs, orcontrollers from any desired family or manufacturer. The hardwareprocessor may be a semiconductor based (e.g., silicon based) device. Inthis example, the processor implements the example keyboard positionsensor 202, the example mode determiner 204, the example keyboardenabler 206, the example keyboard emulator 208, the example activationzone determiner 210, the example zone sensor 212, and the example inputregister 214.

The processor 512 of the illustrated example includes a local memory 513(e.g., a cache). The processor 512 of the illustrated example is incommunication with a main memory including a volatile memory 514 and anon-volatile memory 516 via a bus 518. The volatile memory 514 may beimplemented by Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (SDRAM), DynamicRandom Access Memory (DRAM), RAMBUS® Dynamic Random Access Memory(RDRAM®), and/or any other type of random access memory device. Thenon-volatile memory 516 may be implemented by flash memory and/or anyother desired type of memory device. Access to the main memory 514, 516is controlled by a memory controller.

The processor platform 500 of the illustrated example also includes aninterface circuit 520. The interface circuit 520 may be implemented byany type of interface standard, such as an Ethernet interface, auniversal serial bus (USB), a Bluetooth® interface, a near fieldcommunication (NFC) interface, and/or a PCI express interface.

In the illustrated example, one or more input devices 522 are connectedto the interface circuit 520. The input device(s) 522 permit(s) a userto enter data and/or commands into the processor 512. The inputdevice(s) can be implemented by, for example, an audio sensor, amicrophone, a camera (still or video), a keyboard, a button, a mouse, atouchscreen, a track-pad, a trackball, isopoint, and/or a voicerecognition system.

One or more output devices 524 are also connected to the interfacecircuit 520 of the illustrated example. The output devices 524 can beimplemented, for example, by display devices (e.g., a light emittingdiode (LED), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a liquid crystaldisplay (LCD), a cathode ray tube display (CRT), an in-place switching(IPS) display, a touchscreen, etc.), a tactile output device, a printer,and/or speaker. The interface circuit 520 of the illustrated example,thus, typically includes a graphics driver card, a graphics driver chip,and/or a graphics driver processor.

The interface circuit 520 of the illustrated example also includes acommunication device such as a transmitter, a receiver, a transceiver, amodem, a residential gateway, a wireless access point, and/or a networkinterface to facilitate exchange of data with external machines (e.g.,computing devices of any kind) via a network 526. The communication canbe via, for example, an Ethernet connection, a digital subscriber line(DSL) connection, a telephone line connection, a coaxial cable system, asatellite system, a line-of-site wireless system, a cellular telephonesystem, etc.

The processor platform 500 of the illustrated example also includes oneor more mass storage devices 528 for storing software and/or data.Examples of such mass storage devices 528 include floppy disk drives,hard drive disks, compact disk drives, Blu-ray disk drives, redundantarray of independent disks (RAID) systems, and digital versatile disk(DVD) drives.

The machine executable instructions 532 of FIGS. 20 and 21 may be storedin the mass storage device 528, in the volatile memory 514, in thenon-volatile memory 516, and/or on a removable non-transitory computerreadable storage medium such as a CD or DVD.

From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that example apparatus,systems, articles of manufacture, and methods have been disclosed thatenable dual and flexible display form factors with physical keyboardthat do not sacrifice a keyboard typing experience, manufacturing costs,and appearance. The disclosed apparatus, systems, articles ofmanufacture, and methods improve the use a computing device by providingthe user with a physical keyboard typing experience while reducing thecomplexity of the physical keyboard by removing backlighting modules andsome input processing from the physical keyboards while maintaining thesame functions. The disclosed apparatus, articles of manufacture, andmethods are accordingly directed to one or more improvement(s) in thefunctioning of a computer.

Disclosed herein are example apparatus, system, articles of manufacture,and methods related to computing devices and physical keyboards. Example1 includes a computing device that includes a first display and a seconddisplay coupled to the first display via a first hinge. The computingdevice of Example 1 also includes a keyboard coupled to the seconddisplay via a second hinge.

Example 2 includes the computing device of Example 1, further includinga housing, the second display disposed on a first side of the housing, arecess disposed on a second side of the housing, the keyboard stowablein the recess.

Example 3 includes the computing device of Example 2, wherein the recessis disposed adjacent the first hinge.

Example 4 includes the computing device of Example 2, wherein the recessis disposed adjacent the second hinge.

Example 5 includes the computing device of Example 2, wherein thekeyboard is disposed on the second display in a use position.

Example 6 includes the computing device of Example 5, further includinga sensor to detect placement of the keyboard on the second display.

Example 7 includes the computing device of Example 6, further includinga first magnetic element coupled to the keyboard, and a second magneticelement coupled to the housing, the keyboard magnetically couplable tothe second display via the first magnetic element and the secondmagnetic element.

Example 8 includes the computing device of Example 7, wherein the sensoris a Hall effect sensor.

Example 9 includes the computing device of Example 6, further includinga processor in communication with the sensor, the processor to place thecomputing device in a single display and keyboard mode when the sensordetects placement of the keyboard on the second display.

Example 10 includes the computing device of Example 6, further includinga processor in communication with the sensor, the processor to place thecomputing device in a dual display mode when the sensor does not detectplacement of the keyboard on the second display.

Example 11 includes the computing device of Example 10, wherein theprocessor is to disable the keyboard when the computing device is in thedual display mode.

Example 12 includes the computing device of Example 1, wherein thesecond hinge is a soft hinge.

Example 13 includes the computing device of Example 12, wherein thesecond hinge includes a flexible band.

Example 14 includes the computing device of Example 12, furtherincluding a processor, and a flexible printed circuit disposed in thesecond hinge to transmit signals between the processor and the keyboard.

Example 15 includes the computing device of Example 1, further includinga housing, the second display disposed on a first side of the housing,the housing having a first height, the keyboard having a second height,the second height less than the first height.

Example 16 includes the computing device of Example 1, wherein thekeyboard includes a translucent backplate and the second display is toilluminate portions of the keyboard when the keyboard is disposed on thesecond display.

Example 17 includes the computing device of Example 16, furtherincluding a looped foot disposed on the backplate to prevent leakage oflight.

Example 18 includes the computing device of Example 16, furtherincluding a coating disposed between the backplate and keys of thekeyboard, the coating to obscure the keys when the keyboard is in astowed position and the coating to transmit light when the keyboard isdisposed on the second display.

Example 19 includes the computing device of Example 1, further includinga trackpad coupled adjacent the keyboard, the trackpad including a glasspanel, wherein a portion of the second display is visible through thetrackpad when the trackpad is disposed on the second display.

Example 20 includes the computing device of Example 19, wherein theportion of the second display visible through the trackpad ismanipulatable through the trackpad.

Example 21 includes the computing device of Example 1, further includinga sensor having an activation zone above the second display, the sensorto detect a movement within the activation zone.

Example 22 includes the computing device of Example 21, wherein themovement is movement of a key of the keyboard when a portion of the keyenters the activation zone.

Example 23 includes the computing device of Example 22, wherein theportion of the key is a conductive tip.

Example 24 includes the computing device of Example 22, furtherincluding a processor to register selection of the key based on themovement detection by the sensor.

Example 25 includes the computing device of Example 21, wherein themovement is movement of a finger of a user or of a stylus within theactivation zone and above the second display.

Example 26 includes a computing device that includes a first display, asecond display coupled to the first display via a hinge, and a keyboardcouplable to the second display, the keyboard including a translucentbackplate and the second display is to illuminate portions of thekeyboard when the keyboard is disposed on the second display.

Example 27 includes the computing device of Example 26, furtherincluding a looped foot disposed on the backplate to prevent leakage oflight.

Example 28 includes the computing device of Example 26, furtherincluding a housing having a first side in which the second display isdisposed and a second side into which the keyboard is stowable, and acoating disposed between the backplate and keys of the keyboard, thecoating to obscure the keys when the keyboard is stowed in a recess andthe coating to transmit light when the keyboard is disposed on thesecond display.

Example 29 includes the computing device of Example 26, furtherincluding a trackpad coupled adjacent the keyboard, the trackpadincluding a glass panel, wherein a portion of the second display isvisible through the trackpad when the trackpad is disposed on the seconddisplay.

Example 30 includes the computing device of Example 29, wherein theportion of the second display visible through the trackpad ismanipulatable through the trackpad.

Example 31 includes a computing device that includes a first display, asecond display coupled to the first display via a first hinge, akeyboard couplable to the second display, and a sensor having anactivation zone above the second display, the sensor to detect amovement within the activation zone.

Example 32 includes the computing device of Example 31, wherein themovement is movement of a key of the keyboard when a portion of the keyenters the activation zone.

Example 33 includes the computing device of Example 32, wherein theportion of the key is a conductive tip.

Example 34 includes the computing device of Example 32, furtherincluding a processor to register selection of the key based on themovement detection by the sensor.

Example 35 includes the computing device of Example 31, wherein themovement is movement of a finger of a user or of a stylus within theactivation zone and above the second display.

Example 36 includes a computing device that includes a first display, asecond display, means for coupling the first display and the seconddisplay, a keyboard, and means for coupling the keyboard to the seconddisplay.

Example 37 includes the computing device of Example 36, furtherincluding a housing, the second display disposed on a first side of thehousing, and means for stowing the keyboard on a second side of thehousing.

Example 38 includes the computing device of Example 37, wherein themeans for stowing is disposed adjacent the means for coupling the firstdisplay and the second display.

Example 39 includes the computing device of Example 37, wherein themeans for stowing is disposed adjacent the means for coupling thekeyboard to the second display.

Example 40 includes the computing device of Example 37, wherein thekeyboard is disposed on the second display in a use position.

Example 41 includes the computing device of Example 40, furtherincluding means for detecting placement of the keyboard on the seconddisplay.

Example 42 includes the computing device of Example 41, furtherincluding means for positioning the keyboard on the second display.

Example 43 includes the computing device of Example 42, wherein themeans for positioning the keyboard on the second display includes a Halleffect sensor.

Example 44 includes the computing device of Example 41, furtherincluding means for setting the computing device in a single display andkeyboard mode when the means for detecting detects placement of thekeyboard on the second display.

Example 45 includes the computing device of Example 41, furtherincluding means for setting the computing device in a dual display modewhen the means for detecting does not detect placement of the keyboardon the second display.

Example 46 includes the computing device of Example 45, wherein themeans for setting is to disable the keyboard when the computing deviceis in the dual display mode.

Example 47 includes the computing device of Example 36, wherein themeans for coupling the keyboard to the second display includes a softhinge.

Example 48 includes the computing device of Example 47, wherein themeans for coupling the keyboard to the second display includes aflexible band.

Example 49 includes the computing device of Example 47, furtherincluding means for processing signals, and a flexible printed circuitdisposed in the means for coupling the keyboard to the second display totransmit the signals between the means for processing and the keyboard.

Example 50 includes the computing device of Example 36, furtherincluding a housing, the second display disposed on a first side of thehousing, the housing having a first height, the keyboard having a secondheight, the second height less than the first height.

Example 51 includes the computing device of Example 36, wherein thekeyboard includes a translucent backplate and the second display is toilluminate portions of the keyboard when the keyboard is disposed on thesecond display.

Example 52 includes the computing device of Example 51, furtherincluding means to prevent leakage of light disposed on the backplate.

Example 53 includes the computing device of Example 51, furtherincluding means for obscuring the keys when the keyboard is in a stowedposition and transmitting light when the keyboard is disposed on thesecond display.

Example 54 includes the computing device of Example 36, furtherincluding a trackpad coupled adjacent the keyboard, the trackpadincluding a glass panel, wherein a portion of the second display isvisible through the trackpad when the trackpad is disposed on the seconddisplay.

Example 55 includes the computing device of Example 54, wherein theportion of the second display visible through the trackpad ismanipulatable through the trackpad.

Example 56 includes the computing device of Example 36, furtherincluding means for detecting a movement within an activation zone aboutthe second display.

Example 57 includes the computing device of Example 56, wherein themovement is movement of a key of the keyboard when a portion of the keyenters the activation zone.

Example 58 includes the computing device of Example 57, wherein theportion of the key is a conductive tip.

Example 59 includes the computing device of Example 57, furtherincluding means for registering selection of the key based on thedetected movement.

Example 60 includes the computing device of Example 56, wherein themovement is movement of a finger of a user or of a stylus within theactivation zone and above the second display.

Example 61 includes a computing device that includes a first display, asecond display, means for coupling to the first display and the seconddisplay, a keyboard couplable to the second display, and meansilluminating portions of the keyboard with the second display when thekeyboard is disposed on the second display.

Example 62 includes the computing device of Example 61, further meansfor preventing leakage of light disposed on the keyboard.

Example 63 includes the computing device of Example 61, furtherincluding a housing having a first side in which the second display isdisposed, means for stowing the keyboard on a second side of thehousing, and means for obscuring the keys when the keyboard is stowedand for transmitting light when the keyboard is disposed on the seconddisplay.

Example 64 includes the computing device of Example 61, furtherincluding a trackpad coupled adjacent the keyboard, the trackpadincluding a glass panel, wherein a portion of the second display isvisible through the trackpad when the trackpad is disposed on the seconddisplay.

Example 65 includes the computing device of Example 64, wherein theportion of the second display visible through the trackpad ismanipulatable through the trackpad.

Example 66 includes a computing device that includes a first display, asecond display, means for coupling the first display to the seconddisplay, a keyboard couplable to the second display, and means fordetecting a movement within an activation zone above the second display.

Example 67 includes the computing device of Example 66, wherein themovement is movement of a key of the keyboard when a portion of the keyenters the activation zone.

Example 68 includes the computing device of Example 67, wherein theportion of the key is a conductive tip.

Example 69 includes the computing device of Example 67, furtherincluding means for registering selection of the key based on themovement.

Example 70 includes the computing device of Example 66, wherein themovement is movement of a finger of a user or of a stylus within theactivation zone and above the second display.

Example 71 includes non-transitory computer readable storage medium thatincludes computer readable instructions that, when executed, cause oneor more processors to, at least: detect placement of a keyboard on adisplay of a computing device having a plurality of displays; place thecomputing device in a single display and keyboard mode when theplacement of the keyboard on the display is detected; and place thecomputing device in a multi-display mode when the placement of thekeyboard on the display is not detected.

Example 72 includes the storage medium of Example 71, wherein theinstructions further cause the one or more processors to disable thekeyboard when the computing device is in the multi-display mode.

Example 73 includes the storage medium of Example 71, wherein theinstructions further cause the one or more processors to use the displayto illuminate portions of the keyboard when the keyboard is disposed onthe display.

Example 74 includes the storage medium of Example 71, wherein theinstructions further cause the one or more processors to detect amovement within an activation zone above the display.

Example 75 includes the storage medium of Example 74, wherein themovement is a movement of a key of the keyboard when a portion of thekey enters the activation zone.

Example 76 includes the storage medium of Example 75, wherein theportion of the key is a conductive tip.

Example 77 includes the storage medium of Example 74, wherein theinstructions further cause the one or more processors to registerselection of the key based on the detected movement.

Example 78 includes the storage medium of Example 74, wherein themovement is movement of a finger of a user or of a stylus within theactivation zone and above the display.

Example 79 includes a method that includes: detecting, by executinginstructions with a processor, placement of a keyboard on a display of acomputing device having a plurality of displays; placing, by executinginstructions with the processor, the computing device in a singledisplay and keyboard mode when the placement of the keyboard on thedisplay is detected; and placing, by executing instructions with theprocessor, the computing device in a multi-display mode when theplacement of the keyboard on the display is not detected.

Example 80 includes the method of Example 79, further includingdisabling, by executing instructions with the processor, the keyboardwhen the computing device is in the multi-display mode.

Example 81 includes the method of Example 79, further including using,by executing instructions with the processor, the display to illuminateportions of the keyboard when the keyboard is disposed on the display.

Example 82 includes the method of Example 79, further includingdetecting, by executing instructions with the processor, a movementwithin an activation zone above the display.

Example 83 includes the method of Example 82, wherein the movement is amovement of a key of the keyboard when a portion of the key enters theactivation zone.

Example 84 includes the method of Example 83, wherein the portion of thekey is a conductive tip.

Example 85 includes the method of Example 82, further includingregistering, by executing instructions with the processor, selection ofthe key based on the detected movement.

Example 86 includes the method of Example 82, wherein the movement ismovement of a finger of a user or of a stylus within the activation zoneand above the display.

Example 87 includes a keyboard that includes a plurality of keys, atranslucent backplate having a first side and a second side, and acoating disposed between the first side of the backplate and theplurality of keys, the coating to transmit light from the backplate tothe plurality of keys, and the coating to obscure the plurality keyswhen viewed from the second side of the backplate.

Example 88 includes the keyboard of Example 87, further including atrackpad coupled adjacent the keyboard, the trackpad including a glasspanel, wherein a device on which the keyboard is positionable ismanipulatable through the trackpad.

Example 89 includes the keyboard of Example 87, further including atrackpad coupled adjacent the keyboard, the trackpad including a glasspanel, wherein a device on which the keyboard is positionable is visiblethrough the trackpad.

Example 90 includes the keyboard of Example 87, further including asensor having an activation zone, the sensor to detect a movement withinthe activation zone.

Example 91 includes the keyboard of Example 90, wherein the movement ismovement of a key of the keyboard when a portion of the key enters theactivation zone.

Example 92 includes they keyboard of Example 91, wherein the portion ofthe key is a conductive tip.

Example 93 includes the keyboard of Example 91, further including aprocessor to register selection of the key based on the movementdetection by the sensor.

Example 94 includes the keyboard of Example 87, the keyboard stowable ina computing device.

Example 95 includes the keyboard of Example 94, further including afastener to couple the keyboard to the computing device in a stowedposition.

Example 96 includes the keyboard of Example 95, the fastener including amagnetic fastener.

Example 97 includes a keyboard that includes a plurality of keys, atranslucent backplate having a first side and a second side, and meansfor transmitting light from the backplate to the plurality of keys andfor obscuring the plurality keys when viewed from the second side of thebackplate.

Example 98 includes the keyboard of Example 97, further means fordetecting movement of a key of the plurality of keys.

Example 99 includes the keyboard of Example 97, further including meansfor releasably securing the keyboard to a recess of a computing devicein a stowed position.

Although certain example methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacturehave been disclosed herein, the scope of coverage of this patent is notlimited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all methods,apparatus, and articles of manufacture fairly falling within the scopeof the claims of this patent.

What is claimed is:
 1. A keyboard comprising: a plurality of keys; atranslucent backplate having a first side and a second side; and acoating between the first side of the backplate and the plurality ofkeys, the coating to pass light to illuminate the plurality of keys, andthe coating to obscure the plurality keys when viewed from the secondside of the backplate.
 2. The keyboard of claim 1, further including atrackpad adjacent the plurality of keys, the trackpad including a glasspanel, wherein a device on which the keyboard is positionable ismanipulatable through the trackpad.
 3. The keyboard of claim 1, furtherincluding a trackpad adjacent the plurality of keys, the trackpadincluding a glass panel, wherein a device on which the keyboard ispositionable is visible through the trackpad.
 4. The keyboard of claim1, further including a sensor having an activation zone, the sensor todetect a movement within the activation zone.
 5. The keyboard of claim4, wherein the movement is movement of a key of the keyboard when aportion of the key enters the activation zone.
 6. They keyboard of claim5, wherein the portion of the key is a conductive tip.
 7. The keyboardof claim 5, further including a processor to register selection of thekey based on the movement detection by the sensor.
 8. The keyboard ofclaim 1, the keyboard stowable within a computing device.
 9. Thekeyboard of claim 8, further including a fastener to couple the keyboardto the computing device in a stowed position.
 10. The keyboard of claim9, the fastener including a magnetic fastener.
 11. The keyboard of claim1, further including a loop of material coupled to the backplate toprevent leakage of light.
 12. A keyboard comprising: a plurality ofkeys; a translucent backplate having a first side and a second side; andmeans for transmitting light to the plurality of keys and for obscuringthe plurality keys when viewed from the second side of the backplate.13. The keyboard of claim 12, further means for detecting movement of akey of the plurality of keys.
 14. The keyboard of claim 12, furtherincluding means for releasably securing the keyboard to a recess of acomputing device in a stowed position.
 15. The keyboard of claim 12,further including a trackpad adjacent the plurality of keys, thetrackpad to enable viewing and manipulating a device on which thekeyboard is positioned.
 16. The keyboard of claim 12, further includingmeans for preventing leakage of light.
 17. A non-transitory computerreadable storage medium comprising computer readable instructions that,when executed, cause one or more processors to at least: establish anactivation zone above a display of an electronic device; detect movementwithin the activation zone; and determine an input command based on thedetected movement.
 18. The computer readable storage medium of claim 17,wherein the movement is a hoovering of a stylus.
 19. The computerreadable storage medium of claim 17, wherein the movement is adepression of a key of a keyboard toward the display.
 20. The computerreadable storage medium of claim 17, wherein the instructions cause theat least one processor to set a depth of the activation zone based on asensitivity of at least one of a stylus or a keyboard.